Warner Robins council discusses independence celebration | News

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An annual tradition in the International City remains up in the air. Warner Robins' independence celebration was postponed twice last year because of storms.

Members of Warner Robins city council talked about decisions that could impact whether the annual event happens at all at Tuesday night's meeting.

"We have to decide as a community and as a city government whether we're going to have that event," said Mayor Randy Toms.

Blue Duck events showed interest in partnering with the city to put on the Independence Day celebration. But Mayor Randy Toms says other groups are interested in putting it on too. He said "I personally think it's a great event, I want to see us continue to have it. I think it builds community."

Council agreed to table the decision, but Mayor Toms says the clock is ticking. Mayor Randy Toms hopes to vote on how the independence celebration should be handled in the coming weeks.

City makes donation to 21st Century Partnership

Members also voted to give over $50,000 of budgeted funds to the 21st Century Partnership. "What they're doing to help us be ready to do everything we can to keep Robins Air Force Base open, I think that's a small price to pay." explained Mayor Toms.

Warner Robins police want to keep members on the force

Warner Robins police chief, Brett Evans, proposed giving incentives to encourage people to join the police department. He mentioned offering a signing bonus, covering relocation expenses and giving a higher base pay for those with a college degree or military service.

"I want to be competitive especially with our public safety people so that we stay as safe as we can in this community." said Mayor Toms.

Councilman Tim Thomas said, "I'm not opposed to it, however I think our city should stand alone as being such a quality place to work that we shouldn't even need the incentives."

Councilman Clifford Holmes said if they gave an incentive to join the police department, they'd have to offer them in other jobs and says the department has other obstacles to overcome.

"I would like him to set a goal, an annual goal of hiring minorities within that department." said Holmes.